Celebrating Ten Years of Scarlet & Give Back Day

April 07, 2025 — This year marks a milestone for Grinnell as the College celebrates the 10th anniversary of Scarlet & Give Back Day, a special occasion dedicated to the spirit of community and pride. 

Since 2015, Grinnellians from all over the world have come together and raised $9,464,921 during the previous nine annual giving days. But it’s more than just a day of giving – it’s a celebration of the vibrant community we’ve built, a community where students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents share in the excitement of growth, exploration, and connection. 

Sophia Torres da Cruz ’27
    Sophia Torres da Cruz ’27

Scarlet & Give Back Day 2025 will take place April 9-10 and include many matches and challenges as well as campus events.

Grinnell students’ curiosity drives them to explore new ideas, dive into new fields of study, and engage with the world in meaningful ways. None of this would be possible without the generous gifts from donors who enable these students to pursue their passions, both inside and outside the classroom.

Sophia Torres da Cruz ’27, who hails from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has found a sense of belonging at Grinnell – a place where she can pursue her academic interests while also connecting with others who share her cultural background. As a second-year student, Cruz has embraced the opportunity to explore a newfound interest in statistics, became involved with the Brazilian Student Association, and participated in an externship through the Center for Careers, Life, and Service (CLS). For Cruz, Grinnell has proven to be more than just an academic institution; it’s a home where she can grow, thrive, and forge connections that will last a lifetime.

This is just one of the many stories that reflect the transformative power of Grinnell College’s commitment to providing students with a holistic education. From the laboratory to the art studio, the classroom to the boardroom, and from local initiatives to global experiences, Grinnell students receive an education that not only informs but also empowers them to make a lasting impact on the world.

Donor gifts make all of this possible – ensuring that our students can take full advantage of the opportunities that Grinnell offers. On Scarlet & Give Back Day, we celebrate the generosity that enables students to explore their passions, discover new interests, and pursue their dreams with confidence. Here’s to ten years of making a difference – and to many more to come.

—by Laurel Knox

For your information:

Please join Grinnell College on April 9-10 for Scarlet & Give Back Day and make a gift at any level to the area of the College that is the most meaningful to you and your family.

To read more alumni news, check out our news archive and like the Alumni & Friends Facebook page.